IGP Deploys New Police Commissioner to Osun Ahead of Governorship Election

• Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu has deployed new Police Commissioner Erale Samuel Etaifo to Osun State to lead security operations ahead of the August 15 governorship election.

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, has deployed Commissioner of Police Erale Samuel Etaifo to Osun State to oversee security arrangements for the forthcoming governorship election scheduled for August 15, 2026.

The deployment was announced in a statement issued on Friday by the Osun State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Ojelabi, who said the move reflects the IGP’s commitment to ensuring a peaceful, free, fair and credible electoral process.

According to the statement, Etaifo will coordinate the state’s election security architecture, working closely with other security agencies and key stakeholders to maintain law and order before, during and after the polls.

The police said the deployment underscores the Nigeria Police Force’s determination to provide a secure environment for voters, electoral officials, election observers, media personnel and all law-abiding residents throughout the election period.

“The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Rilwan Olatunji Disu, PSC(+), NPM, in line with his unwavering commitment to neutrality, professionalism, and the conduct of free, fair, and credible elections, has deployed CP Election, CP Erale Samuel Etaifo, to Osun State to oversee the security architecture for the forthcoming gubernatorial election,” the statement read in part.

The command assured residents that comprehensive security measures have already been put in place to safeguard lives, property and sensitive electoral materials across the state.

It also disclosed that officers assigned to election duty have been instructed to remain impartial, professional and respect the rights of all citizens, regardless of their political affiliations.

“The Osun State Police Command assures members of the public that adequate security measures have been emplaced across the State to protect lives, property, and critical electoral materials before, during, and after the election.

“All officers and men deployed for election duty have been directed to remain impartial, professional, and respectful of the rights of every citizen, irrespective of political affiliation.”

The police further warned political parties, candidates, supporters and other stakeholders against engaging in acts capable of disrupting the electoral process.

According to the command, offences such as electoral violence, vote buying, voter intimidation, the spread of misinformation and other forms of criminal activity will be dealt with decisively in accordance with the law.

Residents were urged to remain peaceful, cooperate with security agencies and promptly report any suspicious activities through the police command’s emergency channels.

Osun voters are expected to head to the polls on Saturday, August 15, to elect a new governor in a keenly contested race involving 14 candidates, including the incumbent governor.